New Jersey Declares State of Emergency as Nor’easter Brings Coastal Flooding, Strong Winds to East Coast
TRENTON, N.J. – A powerful nor’easter is impacting the East Coast,prompting New Jersey to declare a state of emergency Saturday night that is expected to last into Monday. The declaration authorizes the activation of state emergency services personnel as coastal flooding and strong winds threaten the region.
The national Weather Service (NWS) forecasts the greatest impacts will be coastal flooding from northeastern North Carolina northward to much of the New Jersey coast. Meteorologist Bob Oravec of the NWS in College Park, Maryland, stated, “The greatest effects are going to be the coastal flooding potential, especially for areas from north-eastern North Carolina northward to much of the New Jersey coast.” Heavy rain is also predicted for southeastern New England and the New York City area, with some already falling in coastal sections of South Carolina.
In North Carolina’s Outer Banks, ocean overwash was reported Sunday morning along Highway 12 near Buxton, according to the Dare County Sheriff’s Office, which urged caution for travelers and alerted property owners as high tide approached. This area has already experienced notable storm damage this season.
New Jersey is bracing for moderate to major coastal flooding, inland flash flooding, winds up to 60 mph (97 kph), up to 5 inches (about 13 cm) of rain, and high surf, perhaps leading to beach erosion. Volunteers are actively placing sandbags along beaches in preparation.
A coastal flood warning and wind advisory are in effect for New York City, Long Island, and southern Westchester County through at least Monday afternoon. The NWS anticipates up to 3 inches of rain and strong winds in coastal areas of Long Island. Wind gusts exceeding 30 mph (48 km/h) were already being recorded in the region Sunday morning.
Utilities in the affected areas have deployed over 1,600 workers to respond to potential outages and damage. New York Governor Kathy Hochul emphasized the importance of preparedness, stating, “With high wind warnings and flood risks, staying alert, vigilant and taking steps to prepare is crucial for everyone’s safety.”
Airports from Washington D.C. to Boston are reporting flight delays and cancellations. The storm is expected to move out of the region by Monday night.
